This bill amends existing laws regarding the review process for initiated measures and amendments to the South Dakota Constitution. It requires the director of the Legislative Research Council to provide written comments and a written opinion on whether an initiated measure or amendment embraces only one subject, as mandated by the South Dakota Constitution. Specifically, the director must assess if the initiated measure complies with Article III, Section 21, and if an initiated amendment adheres to Article XXIII, Sections 1 and 2. The sponsors of the measures are allowed to amend their proposals based on the director's feedback.
Additionally, the bill introduces a new requirement for the secretary of state to determine if a proposed initiated measure violates the single subject rule. If the measure complies, the secretary must provide written certification to the relevant parties and publish this certification on their website within fifteen working days. Conversely, if the measure embraces more than one subject, the secretary must notify the sponsor with an explanation and publish this notice online. The sponsor can then amend the measure and resubmit it for review.
Statutes affected: Introduced, 01/23/2025: 12-13-26.2
Senate Engrossed, 02/12/2025: 12-13-25, 12-13-26.2